Is Your Teenager Drinking and Driving in NJ? Warning Signs & Prevention Tips

Teenagers engaging in drinking and driving pose a significant danger, increasing the risk of accidents and legal consequences. For parents in New Jersey, understanding the warning signs, state-specific laws, and prevention strategies can help keep their teens safe.

Understanding NJ Laws on Underage Drinking and Driving

New Jersey has strict laws regarding underage drinking and driving. The state operates under a zero-tolerance policy for drivers under 21. Here’s what that means:

• BAC Limit: In NJ, drivers under 21 with a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of 0.01% or higher can be charged with underage DUI. This is far stricter than the 0.08% limit for drivers over 21.
  
• Penalties for Underage DUI:
  • License suspension for 30 to 90 days
  • 15 to 30 days of community service
  • Mandatory participation in an alcohol education program
    
• Social Host Liability: If your teen is caught drinking at a party where adults knowingly allowed alcohol consumption, the hosts can face legal consequences under N.J.S.A. 2A:15-5.6.
• Open Container Law: It is illegal for anyone, including passengers, to have an open alcohol container in a vehicle under N.J.S.A. 39:4-51a.

Consequences of Teen Drinking and Driving

Beyond the legal consequences, underage drinking and driving can result in:

• Increased Accident Risks: According to the CDC, teen drivers with any amount of alcohol in their system are 17 times more likely to die in a crash than those who haven’t been drinking.
  
• Severe Injuries and Fatalities: In New Jersey, teen drunk driving crashes have led to dozens of deaths each year.
  
• Long-Term Legal and Financial Repercussions: A DUI conviction stays on a minor’s record for years and can impact their college admissions, job opportunities, and insurance premiums.

Notable NJ Case: In State v. Tomei (2018), a New Jersey teen was convicted of vehicular homicide after causing a fatal crash while under the influence. This case highlights how serious NJ courts are about underage DUI offenses.

Warning Signs Your Teen May Be Drinking and Driving

As a parent, recognizing the signs can help prevent a tragedy. Here are some red flags:

• Frequent Use of Breath Mints or Mouthwash: Teens trying to cover up alcohol smell.
  
• Unexplained Car Damage: Dents and scratches that your teen struggles to explain.
• Changes in Behavior: Mood swings, irritability, or defensiveness when questioned about their whereabouts.
  
• Sudden Need for Extra Money: This could be a sign of buying alcohol.
  
• Social Circle Changes: New friends who engage in risky behaviors.
  
• Avoidance of Eye Contact or Slurred Speech: Signs of intoxication after a night out.
  
• Late-Night Sneaking Out: If your teen frequently sneaks out at night, it could be a sign they’re engaging in risky behavior.
  
• Increased Secrecy About Plans: It could be a red flag if your teen suddenly becomes secretive about their whereabouts.

Prevention Tips for Parents

Preventing teen drinking and driving requires a proactive approach. Here are some strategies:

1. Set Clear Expectations and Consequences

• Establish a family rule that drinking and driving is never an option.
• Make it clear that breaking this rule leads to serious consequences like loss of driving privileges.
• Encourage responsible decision-making by discussing the dangers of alcohol and peer pressure.

2. Encourage Open Communication

• Let your teen know they can always call you for a ride without immediate punishment.
• Regularly discuss the dangers of drinking and driving calmly and non-judgmentally.
• Share real-life stories of the consequences of DUI cases, including those in NJ.

3. Monitor Their Activities

• Use apps like Find My iPhone or Life360 to track their location.
• Check curfew compliance and stay engaged with their social life.
• Keep an eye on their social media activity for signs of risky behavior.

4. Create an Emergency Plan

• Set up a code word your teen can use if they need a ride but don’t want their friends to know.
• Provide alternative transportation options like Uber, Lyft, or a trusted adult.
• Encourage a buddy system where they look out for each other and ensure no one drives drunk.

5. Lead by Example

• Avoid driving after drinking and ensure your teen sees you making safe choices.
• Reinforce the importance of being a responsible driver.
• Show them how to refuse alcohol and remove themselves from risky situations.

6. Educate Them About Legal and Real-World Consequences

• Explain how a DUI conviction can affect college admissions, scholarships, and future job prospects.
• Share stories from local NJ news about DUI accidents and legal repercussions.
• Inform them about New Jersey’s Good Samaritan Law (N.J.S.A. 2C:33-15), which encourages minors to call for medical help in alcohol-related emergencies without fear of prosecution.

Consult with an Attorney

If your teen is facing DUI charges, it is critical to seek legal help immediately. A skilled New Jersey car accident lawyer can guide you through the legal system, protect your rights, and work toward minimizing long-term consequences.

See More: You can also hire an expert auto accident lawyer in Jersey City.

At Rosengard Law Group, we understand the impact of underage DUI cases on families. Our team is dedicated to providing supportive legal guidance while striving for the most favorable resolution for our clients.